What To Know
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, to the green beans before microwaving.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño to the green beans for a kick.
- Leftover microwave green beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Are you looking for a quick and healthy way to prepare a delicious side dish? Look no further than our microwave green bean recipe! This simple and flavorful recipe will have your green beans ready in minutes, leaving you with more time to enjoy your meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans: Trim the ends of the green beans and rinse them under cold water.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the green beans, olive oil, salt, pepper, and water.
3. Microwave: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp.
4. Stir and Continue Cooking: Stir the green beans halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. If needed, microwave for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until desired tenderness is reached.
5. Drain and Serve: Drain any excess water and transfer the green beans to a serving dish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations:
- Garlic Green Beans: Add a minced clove of garlic to the olive oil before microwaving.
- Lemon-Herb Green Beans: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, to the green beans before microwaving.
- Spicy Green Beans: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño to the green beans for a kick.
Benefits of Microwaving Green Beans:
- Quick and Convenient: Microwaving green beans is a fast and easy way to cook them, saving you time and effort.
- Preserves Nutrients: Microwaving helps retain more nutrients than boiling or steaming.
- Versatile Side Dish: Microwave green beans are a versatile side dish that can complement a variety of meals.
Tips for Perfect Microwave Green Beans:
- Use Fresh Green Beans: Fresh green beans will yield the best flavor and texture.
- Trim Carefully: Trimming the ends of the green beans ensures even cooking.
- Add Water: The water helps create steam, which helps cook the green beans evenly.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking will make the green beans mushy. Cook until tender-crisp.
- Serve Immediately: Microwave green beans taste best when served fresh.
Health Benefits of Green Beans:
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Green beans are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium.
- Low in Calories: Green beans are low in calories, making them a great choice for weight management.
- Good Source of Fiber: Green beans are high in fiber, which helps promote digestive health.
Creative Presentation Ideas:
- Green Bean Bundles: Tie green beans together with a ribbon or twine to create elegant bundles.
- Green Bean Salad: Add cooked green beans to a salad with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.
- Green Bean Skewers: Thread green beans onto skewers with cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for a fun appetizer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen green beans in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Simply thaw them before microwaving.
Q: How do I know when the green beans are done cooking?
A: The green beans are done cooking when they are tender-crisp and have a bright green color.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables, such as chopped carrots, onions, or bell peppers, to the green beans before microwaving.
Q: How do I store leftover microwave green beans?
A: Leftover microwave green beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I reheat microwave green beans?
A: Yes, you can reheat microwave green beans in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.
